American illusionist Harry Houdini rose to world fame for his sensational escape acts. He first attracted notice in vaudeville in the US and then as "Harry 'Handcuff' Houdini" on a tour of Europe, where he challenged police forces to keep him locked up. Soon he extended his repertoire to include chains, ropes slung from skyscrapers, straitjackets under water, and having to escape from and hold his breath inside a sealed milk can with water in it. This world-premiere exhibit will include first edition books, personal letters and contracts, handcuffs, stage props, locks and the famed milk can from the 1908 escape illusion.
I know nothing more about this, but as it's pretty much in my own backyard, I'm super curious what might be displayed and from which collection(s). When I know more you will too!
UPDATE: This is the Randall Bell collection. As Randall himself puts it, "I’ve been collecting Houdini quietly for decades." This is going to be exciting!
Please keep us posted, John!
ReplyDeleteYes please keep us posted! Somebody will loan out the 1908 Milk Can for this exhibit? Who could that be?
ReplyDeleteSo this is the Randall Bell collection. This is going to be great!
ReplyDeleteIs Bell known to own a milk can? Are we going to see a can that hasn't been accounted for yet? I'm always trying to keep tabs on the remaining HH and Hardeen cans.
DeleteRandall Bell does have a Milk Can and you can see it on page 448 of Patrick's Houdini The Key. It was found in the basement of 278.
DeleteAh! Thank you!
DeleteThis is good news. I'll be back in O.C. for a week Oct. 11-18th for my stepson's wedding. I'm going to try my best to see this.
ReplyDelete